Dear North Carolina 4-H Family and Friends,
We hope this message finds you safe and well.
We are deeply moved by the overwhelming support and love we have received from across the nation. As we navigate the path to recovery in the wake of the recent devastation in our mountains, we understand that the journey ahead will be challenging. The winds may have destroyed homes, and the waters may have washed away the familiar, but amidst this chaos, we also witness the remarkable strength of a community united by a spirit that no storm can extinguish.
In times of darkness, communities like ours have shown time and time again that they can rise from the ashes of tragedy. We are more than the damage that’s been done. We are children's laughter, the hands that help one another, and the deep ties that connect families, neighbors, and friends. The heart of Western Carolina beats strong, and though the path may be long, it is in the process of rebuilding that true strength will emerge.
So many have asked how best to help, so we have compiled a list of potential opportunities. Please consider contributing to one or both of these efforts, and let this be a moment to remind each other that no storm is stronger than the human spirit. Please visit our Helpful Hands, Healing Hearts Website for ways to participate.
4-H Clover Care Packages
The NC 4-H team suggests that adoption states, county teams, 4-H clubs, families, or individuals create and donate youth activity kits. These kits will provide opportunities for youth to be creative and engage in activities that provide distraction and a time for processing emotions through coloring, writing, or other means of active expression. Western NC counties have indicated their needs and capacity at this time, on the signup. Our sign-up will be updated monthly as needs change, so please check back often. Items we recommend, including in the kits now, are:
Coloring books & crayons/colored pencils: To encourage creativity and help them express their feelings.
Winter clothing items: gloves, hats, scarves, coats, etc.
Blank notebooks or journals: For drawing, writing, or journaling to cope with emotions.
Stickers: Fun and easy to use, adding a playful element to their creativity.
Stuffed animals or plush toys: For emotional comfort.
Small blankets: Cozy and comforting, providing a sense of security.
Handmade cards or notes: Personal messages of hope and encouragement from others.
Puzzle books: Simple crosswords, word searches, or mazes for distraction and mental engagement.
Card games: Compact and easy-to-learn games like UNO or Go Fish.
Travel-sized board games: For fun, easy-to-carry games that others can share.
STEM activity kits: Simple science or engineering activities to stimulate curiosity.
Bubbles: Easy to play with and lighthearted fun for children of all ages.
Jump ropes: For physical activity and a way to burn off energy.
Sidewalk chalk: To encourage outdoor play and creativity.
Stress balls: To help manage anxiety and stress.
Mindfulness or relaxation cards: Simple breathing exercises or calming activities.
Storybooks: Positive, uplifting stories to distract and entertain.
Toiletries: Small toothbrush kits, combs, and soap—practical items that may be missing.
Reusable water bottles: Keeping hydrated while also providing something personal.
Snacks: Non-perishable, kid-friendly snacks like granola bars or fruit snacks.
Photos or messages of hope from peers: To help them feel connected.
Temporary tattoos or wristbands: Fun and cheerful, offering small but meaningful excitement.
Youth Belong Program Monetary Donations
Many NC 4-H Youth lost everything to this storm. They and their families will spend years recovering. Funding for normal enrichment and summer activities will be the last thing on their minds. However, the ability to stay connected to their 4-H family will be an essential part of their healing journey. We invite you to donate funds to help youth in Western North Carolina affected by the storm to attend 4-H programs that they will otherwise not be able to afford.
Both our NC 4-H Honor Club and NC Volunteer Leaders Association are taking the lead on this effort. Monetary donations can be made by check to either.
NC 4-H Honor Club / Checks Payable to: NC 4-H Honor Club
ATTN: Shannon McCollum, 4-H Youth Dev. Specialist, Box 7655 NCSU, Raleigh, NC 27695-7655
NC 4-H Volunteer Leaders Association / Checks Payable to: NC 4-H Volunteer Leaders Association
ATTN: Diane Sturges, NCVLA Financial Officer, 12156 NC Highway 125, Halifax, NC 27839-9525
Send a Western youth to summer camp and 4-H Congress scholarships are available on the Signup Genius.
Donations can be earmarked for specific impacted counties and their general fund -or- specific 4-H programs if desired. Simply list this on the memo line of your check or in the note section via the online payment system. Program Areas include: Teen Retreats, Overnight Summer Camp, 4-H Congress. Proceeds will benefit 4-H programs in the West district of North Carolina.
Together, we can bring hope and relief to those in need. Thank you for your kindness and generosity during this challenging time.
Sincerely,
The NC 4-H State Team
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